City Council condemns Midwest Inn

As expected, the Du Quoin City Council took quick action Monday to condemn the Midwest Inn.

Commissioners voted unanimously at their meeting Monday to condemn the dilapidated facility at 423 W. Main St., less than a week after the city obtained a court order to close the establishment, known for years as the Hub Motel.

A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday in Perry County circuit court regarding the issuance of a temporary injunction enjoining the owners from operating the establishment until improvements have been made. The building reportedly lacks heat or running water. City officials also have cited unsanitary conditions, the absence of operational fire alarms, an insect infestation, and reports of water potentially running from electrical outlets.

The building's owner, Charles Patel, was in attendance at Monday's meeting and addressed the commissioners. He asked for more time to make improvements to the facility.

Mayor Guy Alongi took a firm line in his response.

"I want to be respectful to you, sir, but your time is up," Alongi said, citing the conditions city officials found in the building following a report received last week on social media. "Shame on you. I don't consider you a good landlord. I'm sorry. We have to look out for the citizens of our town"

In May 2016, commissioners moved to condemn just one portion of the motel following a traffic crash that caused significant problems to that part. Alongi said the ownership has had plenty of time to make improvements but has failed to do so.

Last week, the city's police and fire departments worked to relocate the few remaining residents of the building after receipt of the court order from Circuit Judge James Campanella closing the establishment "due to various life safety code violations," according to a release from the city.